Saints Could Find Another Illini Draft Steal in 2023

New Orleans could find another needed backfield threat and a potential draft steal with this Illinois product.

In 2007, the New Orleans Saints brought in an undrafted rookie running back named Pierre Thomas. Despite an extremely productive career at the University of Illinois, Thomas was overlooked by every NFL team for seven rounds. He'd go on to lead the Saints in rushing three times, was one of the league's most respected weapons on screen passes, and would wind up in the franchise's Hall of Fame after an outstanding eight-year career that included a Super Bowl championship. 

Illinois is sending another back into the 2023 NFL Draft that comes in without a lot of acclaim. Unlike Thomas, he'll be drafted, but probably nowhere close to what his actual skill level dictates. 

RB - Chase Brown 

Illinois (Sr.)

5'10" 209-Lbs.

Illinois Illinois Fighting Illini running back Chase Brown (2) runs the ball against Northwestern defensive back Tyson Rooks (9). Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Chase transferred to Illinois after one year at Western Michigan and joined twin brother Sydney, a safety with the Illini. He'd be sparingly used over the next two years, but turned in back-to-back 100-yard games during the abbreviated 2020 campaign. 

Brown became the featured back for Illinois in 2021 and responded with 1,005 rushing yards and five touchdowns while averaging nearly six yards per carry. Last season, he was second in the Big 10 and fourth in the NCAA with 1,643 yards on the ground and scored 10 touchdowns.

Brown ran for over 100 yards in 10 of the Illini's 12 contests. His 1,883 yards from scrimmage topped all players in the Big 10 and ranked third across the NCAA. 

A Florida state champion in the 4×100m relay, Brown ran a 4.43 40 and 1.53 10-yard split at the NFL Scouting Combine. He also turned in a 40" vertical jump and 10'7" broad jump. 

The Illinois scheme is predicated on between the tackle runs, so Brown will have to prove that he can get outside on NFL defenses. He ran very limited routes as a receiver and had just 48 catches over his last three seasons for the Illini. He also struggled in blitz pick up, often being out of position and relying on cut blocks.

As a runner, Brown would sometimes slow himself in the backfield looking for cutback lanes instead of following his blocking. He also had issues with ball security in 2022, fumbling five times. Once through a hole, Brown has just average instant burst to pull away from defenders.

Illinois Fighting Illini running back Chase Brown (2) runs through an opening against the Michigan State Spartans. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY

Brown excelled with a high volume of work and remained strong late in games. He runs with good power and keeps his legs churning after contact, often requiring multiple tacklers to bring him down. He's a one-cut runner that hits the hole with force, but also has excellent agility to dodge defenders. 

While ball security in 2022 was an issue, Brown had only one fumble in 298 touches prior to last year. He sets up blocks and moves defenders with subtle fakes like a seasoned pro. His combination of excellent vision and quick feet causes him to rarely get stopped for a loss.

Despite the lack of targets, Brown has shown to be a lethal receiver out of the backfield, averaging over nine yards per catch. He has outstanding hands and turns upfield quickly once securing the reception. 

Saints RB Alvin Kamara is facing at least a six-game league suspension in 2023 because of legal issues. New Orleans signed 1,000-yard back Jamaal Williams as an outstanding complement to Kamara, a team weakness for two years. However, the team still needs another legitimate threat at running back. 

Illinois Fighting Illini running back Chase Brown (2) breaks away for a touchdown against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY

Chase Brown would be an excellent fit in the New Orleans system. He's a high-effort runner between the tackles who would also be a weapon out of the backfield. His ability to thrive with a high volume of touches, compact running style, and underrated speed and toughness gives him the upside of a featured back. 

Brown's lack of explosive plays and 2022 ball security could drop him late into Day 2 or even perhaps into Day 3. With the all-around skills of an every down back, Brown could make teams regret overlooking him.